Savings Day – Not So Obvious Dollar Drains

If you’re trying to save money, look at some not so obvious ways! 

Well obviously, you can reduce spending by moving or driving something less expensive. What’s not so obvious is the smaller spending that adds up over time. For example, do you really need Amazon Prime? The annual fee is $119 per year plus taxes – about $13 a month. Prime video membership is $8.99 a month plus taxes. There are benefits, but do they outweigh the cost? Instead, try keeping a shopping list until you qualify for free shipping from Amazon or other companies. You may have limited shipping options but this leads to better planning and less impulse purchasing. Using an Amazon gift card limits spending by not linking to a credit card on your account.

Do you really need those streaming services? According to The Streamable, the average viewer, in 2021, had 5 or more subscriptions. The top five were Netflix, Amazon Prime, Disney+, Hulu, and HBO Max. Bloomberg reports that the average streaming consumer spent $40 a month. Cable TV can run from $11 to $120 a month. How about Audible? Free audiobooks are available via Overdrive and Hoopla, and there’s more: fast food, coffee, bottled water, gym memberships, manicures, pedicures, lottery tickets. You get the point! Track your spending for the next 30 days. You’ll discover some not-so-obvious expenses, and ask God to help you. He’ll strengthen and sustain you in your efforts to become the steward you were meant to be. 

Has the not-so-obvious spending impacted your credit card debt? I recommend Christian Credit Counselors. They’ll create a debt management plan that works for you. For more information call the Crown Helpline: 800-722-1976 or visit online at crown.org/ccc.